Ultimate Bacon Cheeseburger with Caramelized Onions Recipe

If you're craving a hearty, mouthwatering burger that’s packed with flavor, this Ultimate Bacon Cheeseburger with Caramelized Onions is the perfect choice. This recipe combines a juicy beef patty, crispy bacon, melted cheddar cheese, and sweet caramelized onions, all nestled between a toasted bun with fresh toppings. It’s a classic American dish elevated with a gourmet twist, perfect for a weekend barbecue or a cozy dinner at home.

Ingredients (Serves 4)

• 1 lb (450g) ground beef (80% lean, 20% fat)
• 8 slices of bacon
• 4 slices of cheddar cheese
• 1 large red onion, thinly sliced
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 4 burger buns (brioche or sesame)
• 1 large tomato, sliced
• 4 lettuce leaves
• 4 tablespoons mayonnaise
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: pickles, ketchup, or mustard

Instructions

Step 1: Caramelize the Onions
Start by preparing the star topping: caramelized onions. In a skillet over medium-low heat, melt the butter and add the thinly sliced red onion. Sprinkle the sugar over the onions to help with caramelization. Cook slowly for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions are soft, golden brown, and sweet. This process brings out the natural sweetness of the onions, making them a perfect complement to the savory burger.

Step 2: Cook the Bacon
While the onions are caramelizing, let’s move on to the bacon. In a separate skillet, cook the bacon slices over medium heat until crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Flip the strips halfway through to ensure even cooking. Once done, transfer the bacon to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess grease. The crispy bacon will add a delightful crunch and smoky flavor to your cheeseburger.

Step 3: Prepare the Beef Patties
Now it’s time to shape the beef patties. Divide the ground beef into 4 equal portions and form them into patties about ½-inch thick. Make a slight indentation in the center of each patty to prevent them from puffing up while cooking. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper. Preheat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat, and cook the patties for 4-5 minutes per side for medium doneness, or until they reach your preferred level of doneness.

Step 4: Assemble the Burger
With the patties almost done, it’s time to add the cheddar cheese. Place a slice of cheddar on each patty during the last minute of cooking, covering the skillet or grill to let the cheese melt perfectly. Meanwhile, toast the burger buns lightly on the grill or in a toaster. Spread a tablespoon of mayonnaise on the bottom half of each bun, then layer with lettuce, a beef patty with melted cheese, two slices of bacon, a slice of tomato, and a generous helping of caramelized onions. Top it off with the other half of the bun.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Your Ultimate Bacon Cheeseburger is ready to be enjoyed! Serve it hot with a side of fries, coleslaw, or a pickle spear for the full diner experience. The combination of the juicy beef patty, gooey cheddar, crispy bacon, and sweet caramelized onions creates a flavor explosion in every bite. This burger is sure to become a favorite for burger lovers everywhere.

Tips for the Best Burger

• Use high-quality ground beef with a good fat content for a juicier patty.
• Don’t skip the caramelized onions—they add a gourmet touch that elevates the burger.
• If you prefer a spicier kick, add a slice of jalapeño or a drizzle of sriracha to the mayonnaise.

This bacon cheeseburger recipe is all about balancing flavors and textures, from the savory beef and bacon to the fresh veggies and sweet onions. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to make and even easier to love!